There's A 'Very Real' Chance Of The Old Firm Game Being Cancelled

There's a chance that the Old Firm game at Celtic Park on March 21st could be cancelled over fears of fans meeting outside of the stadium.

Rangers are set to travel to Celtic's home as champions for the first time in 10 years a week on Sunday, after winning the title last weekend thanks to the Hoops failure to beat Dundee United.

There has been talk about whether the former champions would greet their fierce rivals with a guard of honour ahead of kick off at their home but now it seems they might not greet them at all.

'Gers fans broke lockdown rules to celebrate their teams first title in a decade, following Celtic's nine in-a-row, and, according to the Scottish Sun, sources are worried those scenes could be repeated in 10 days time, potentially with both sets of fans taking to Glasgow's streets.

A source told the paper, "There needs to be assurances that there will be no repeats of what happened at the weekend - but everyone knows this is going to be a challenge.

"The responsibility falls on the clubs, but will fans really listen to them?

"There have already been indications some supporters plan to gather at Parkhead on March 21.

"What officers had to deal with at the weekend was bad enough, without adding in rivalry and the potential for violence.

"Calling the game off is a very real possibility."

Rangers fans celebrated in George Square. Image: PA Images

The issue lies with the policing of the match, and the surrounding areas of both Parkhead and Ibrox, and it's even been discussed at government level.

Speaking at Holyrood on Tuesday, Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said, "The behaviour witnessed at the weekend was disgraceful and selfish.

"In terms of future fixtures, there are a variety of discussions happening over the course of this week, including one between myself and the chief constable.

"We will report back on those in due course and certainly before the scheduled Old Firm match on March 21."

Liverpool fans were also criticised for taking to the streets to celebrate their Premier League title last year. Image: PA Images

Whilst Rangers have already won the league it would be a huge shame if the match wasn't able to go ahead, especially because of the minority.

Topics: Celtic, Football, Scottish Premiership, Rangers

Ryan Sidle

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